The Witches by Roald DahlMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
It's not often that I have the experience of reading a book aloud that I haven't read before, but is one that my kids have. The girls could hardly wait to get to The Witches by Roald Dahl, and were literally giggling with anticipation the night we began. I'm no stranger to Dahl--I've been a fan since picking up James and the Giant Peach as a kid. I think he was a genius at writing for kids. He manages to get the perfect combination of funny, gross, and terrifying. His books are full of characters which--while never slipping into stereotypes--are reminiscent of archetypes: vulnerable yet ultimately courageous heroes (and heroines!), loyal guides, and truly wicked and evil villains. The Witches lived up to all my expectations...and then some.
That said, this book is not for the faint of heart. These witches are some scary ladies! What makes them truly terrifying is that they are not dressed in black cloaks and riding around on broomsticks, but instead look like ordinary people. Hmmm...evil masquerading as good--that never happens in real life. But just as I would wonder if Dahl was taking us over the line, he throws in a silly name or a ridiculous physical description, and the laughter saves us. And of course, there is the wonderful grandmama who loves her grandson to pieces, and has this amazing sense of adventure. Don't we all wish for a Norwegian grandmother? This is a perfect book for kids who like their books with a strong sense of fun and adventure--and their parents too!
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